Brené Brown at TEDxHouston

Dr. Brené Brown is a researcher professor at the University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work, where she has spent the past ten years studying a concept that she calls Wholeheartedness, posing the questions: How do we engage in our lives from a place of authenticity and worthiness? How do we cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection that we need to embrace our imperfections and to recognize that we are enough -- that we are worthy of love, belonging and joy? Brené is the author of I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn't): Telling the Truth About Perfectionism, Inadequacy, and Power (2007) and the forthcoming books, The Gifts of Imperfection (2010) and Wholehearted: Spiritual Adventures in Falling Apart, Growing Up, and Finding Joy ( 2011).

About TEDx, x = independently organized event

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

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  Education

[Farah H]

I'm in tears. I'm 21 years old and despite the fact that I'm considered a very attractive, I have never been able to really let a guy get close to me. I've never even been kissed or no one has even held my hand because I've built this huge brick wall around me which I don't even know how to tear down. I really want to believe I'm enough but all I ever see are my flaws. I hope that some day soon I can truly believe I'm worthy of loving because this is not a good way to live.

[Kathleen Gemma]

Choose carefully who you open up to. We share our shame story with the wrong person, they can easily become one more piece of flying debris in an already dangerous storm. Brené Brown

[MindDetoxwithMarivi]

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[jvyoga]

WOW! Ironically I used the word Wholeheartedly on a video years ago at my brother's wedding. I had no idea others would make fun of me for using that word. I let that experience affect my self image for years. Thank you for this research story. You created a breakthrough in my life today. I live wholeheartedly and choose to speak authentically and lovingly embrace times when people, even family, make fun of me or don't quite get me! Thank you for giving me back the permission to be me.

[Gigi Jacobs]

Love, Love, Love You!!!! Thank you so much for the work you do! I pray and hope that your words,wisdom and knowledge will help change the world. It is hard to be vulnerable and exposed, but so important for growth.

[gtdadof10]

Start with Christ. No, not the 20th and 21st century Western hemisphere bastardized version of Jesus, but the real Christ. He is tender yet strong, infinitely compassionate yet purposeful and full of initiative. He respects your womanhood deeply and will honor who you are unlike anyone ever could because He made you who you are. He will never, never let you down. Our cheapened misconceptions of Christ are deeply disappointing. He is all sufficient. Seek Him. He's waiting for you.

[William Baranowski]

Loved it! Thank you, so much.

[goodlifejk]

Skyler?

[Jennifer DeSanctis-Narby]

Awesome talk. As a therapist new in her field, I have been so encouraged and inspired by your words. I would LOVE to work with you, learn from you, be mentored by you. I came to watch this video after reading your interview with Oprah in O magazine this morning. I am currently out of work due to the inability to focus in an area that I feel I CAN BE vulnerable in and still be "someone's therapist". I know you understand. Thanks so much. I will be buying your books and following your career.

[Bonita Nuttall]

Love your work and humility! Such great wisdom. Thank you for your research and for sharing!! x

[Bleeping Bobby]

Yeah, while I barely have my fridge full but empty for that to do...

[Desiree Nembhard]

brilliant! you are amazingly generous with your words. thank you